Welcome to AFM Local #566

Our newest Life Member. Congratulations

Hi Everyone, I just got back from the Canadian Conference in Ottawa and have a lot to report. Due to the current international situation, many of our locals have reported that their membership is not growing. The uncertainty created by the current US administration in regards to Canadian musicians securing P2 visas in a timely manner is having many musicians pause and rethink their plans. The wait time is now 10 1/2 months for regular processing and there is no indication that the situation is going to improve. Regardless, WFM Local 566 has actually increased its membership. In July of 2024, the WFM was at 242 members, today we have 319! This is an increase of over 25% and we are the only local showing this steady growth. Why is the WFM signing up more members when other locals are not? Some of the reasons were discussed at the conference; for example WFM is one of only a handful of Canadian locals that has a direct connection with their city’s district labour council. The Windsor District labour Council is an affiliation of all the large unions in our region and as members for the last few years we have forged a relationship and we are now working together. When unions have events, they are calling the musician union to provide entertainment. Another factor discussed was our locals continued outreach throughout the community. The WFM is actively involved planning and performing community events, organizing charity events and supporting youth music development throughout our region. Our board members are committed to providing support wherever it is needed and are constantly looking to see where that need exists. ‘The Gastro Pub Series’ this summer and earlier, with ‘Saints Down’ at the Waters Edge Event Centre are examples of how our local is helping to create new music venues and thereby creating new opportunities for our members to perform. The WFM now has a collective voice and stands alongside the other unions with calls for fair wages and fair treatment in the workplace, on and off the stage. Speaking of solidarity, in closing I’d like to remind everybody that on Labour Day, the WINDSOR district labour council and the United Way are having their annual Labour Day parade and celebration in Lanspeary Park. The parade starts at 10AM and arrives at the park right before 11 AM. I hope our members can attend as everyone is invited to enjoy this free family event. With thanks, Rob Balint President WFM Local 566

Welcome Everyone to the WINDSOR Federation of musician’s official website! I look forward to sharing with you the latest news and up-to-date events that affect our industry and our music community. My thanks to all involved in getting our site running and thank you members for your patience. Here’s our chance now to connect even closer. In solidarity, Rob Balint President WFM Local 566